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Summer is around the corner and you don’t want to end up standing around the corner because you are to shy to have fun out in the summer sun!

It is now the time to take back control and become the best version of YOU. I was the skeptical one about transformations or weight loss journeys and the Before & After photos you see so publicly posted here, there and everywhere – UNTIL I took up the challenge and did it myself…I want to encourage you to take 12 weeks of your life and dedicate it to your health & well being and in the process be transformed not only physically but mentally.

This was my journey and I want to share with you that IT IS POSSIBLE. Yes it will be tough at times but I promise you today it will be worth it. I did the USN Ultimate Sports Nutrition 12 Week Body Makeover Challenge not once but twice and I was transformed indeed.

After my pregnancy I was left with LOADS of weight that I gained and I never thought it was possible to see my six pack again {achieved by my first challenge} and then I did…

I wish I can carry each one of you to the finish line and inspire you to do it for yourself. Wish I can personally share my journey with each one and encourage you. You deserve to feel amazing and confident and beautiful inside out.

This is just a “tool” for a lifelong journey. At first I didn’t know where to start or what supplements to use or what program to follow – then I opened my USN Started pack and there it was – ALL the information compiled to educate me while taking on the biggest life changing challenge for myself. It made life easier and I was no longer overwhelmed by all the information out there, everything that I needed to assist me in reaching my goal was there…Before I knew, it became a lifestyle and I will never look back.

Yes we all stumble somewhere along the road but the question is; Will YOU get back up and take control?

For more info on this Challenge follow the link and be sure: It is LIFE CHANGING!

HEALTH | FITNESS | LOVE | COMMITMENT | DEDICATION | TEARS | SWEAT | JOY = REWARD – only to mention a few keywords, there is so much to say…

As most of you know I’m prepping for the WBFF South Africa taking place Friday 20th & Saturday 21st June 2014 at Carnival City Casino. This will be my first ever Fitness Stage Bikini Competition and believe me what a journey indeed.

I took a moment to sit down and recap on how far I have come and in the process I realized my deep passion for the sport! From being so unhealthy, fat, low self-esteem to being fit, happy, content, and blessed where I’m at. Some people say but WHERE do I start…Or they think about the duration of the journey to reach their goal and that in itself is discouraging for some BUT today I want to encourage YOU!

Take the first step, you will never look back!

This sums it up for me:

Working out and eating clean doesn’t have to be a chore, have fun with it…

You have to get the right mindset and stop seeing this as an obligation and a chore, but rather an investment in your health and overall life.

So many moan non stop about their diets, the schlep of working out, prepping food etc…Well I cannot wait to food prep not even to mention my gym hour.

As a single mommy this to me is absolutely necessary. Doing something for myself only for it to be a benefit to my beautiful princess girl. I want to be the kind of mommy to whom she will look up to and see an example of living a healthy lifestyle. I want her to value herself enough to one day take care of her body & mind. I believe with working out and a good nutritional diet there comes a sense discipline and commitment. This I believe will form part of your everyday life whether in your workplace or in an environment surrounded by others. Be an inspiration to yourself first and then to others. Believe in yourself and you’re halfway there.

People ask me how do I get abs, or have time to food prep or go to the gym, or how do I get the time with a 1 year old girl? Well I make time and prioritize and set boundaries with certain things in my life!!

Well let me tell you it is all about consistency. I have abs all year round, why? Because this is my lifestyle this is part of who I am. I don’t believe in quick fix diets etc and I don’t see my lifestyle as being on a diet. I love my food and I make sure I fuel my body with the best. And yes of course I cheat and have sweets and the occasional night out partying but AGAIN its about consistency. No matter what I stay to my routine and I will be in gym the following day. Stop condemning yourself for the bad choices you make. Get up and go on…

“If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place.” Lao Tzu

Make it fun and love the journey…

This is some of the pics of my journey the last month or two…

Let me start at the beginning – This little beauty is my little princess. She is what my life is about. I live, breath and do EVERYTHING for her. I strive to be the BEST EVERY single day.

This is what my life is about…LOVE this angel with my life

Secondly I want to share my excitement that I my sponsorship with USN Ultimate Sports Nutrition has been extended for another year. I’m so grateful to be part of the USN family and so passionate about the brand. I believe in the best and only the best and this is the ONLY Supplements that I use…

Thank you USN for an amazing 3+ years I am honored to represent the Brand. Visit the website or please do ask if you need more information: http://www.usn.co.za/

I adjust my supplement plan as I go along to form part of my goal.

My monthly supplement supply. Blessed to be sponsored by the best!

The beginning of my journey to WBFF…

All about dedication & having fun in the process..

My food prep for week 1 & 2

I lift & squat bro…Love my new training vests…

Then the USN Gala Evening – This was the high-lite of my evening when I had the honor of meeting Bella Falconi. Wow she is a true inspiration. Again an athlete who breaths success and who is a true example of consistency.

Myself and Bella Falconi – She is such an inspiration.

This is my current progress on the ABS – I’m going for 8 😉 so lets see how the definition goes along as my diet gets adjusted

Progress

Then thank you for each and every one of my Blog & Facebook & Instagram & Twitter followers. There is so many amazing people that I got to meet over time and I appreciate each one of you. If you havent followed me yet please do so @ClaudineKidson

Every comment, every like, every share, every Inbox message is what makes this journey even more rewarding. I want you to be the best version of yourself.

Good-luck to all those prepping for shows – Be YOUR best!

Have a super amazing Easter Weekend and don’t overindulge more than you can handle 😉 Stay fit and think fit…

First things first…Do you want to enter the USN 12 Week Challenge 2012 then you have to start by purchasing your 12 Week Body Transformation Starter Pack. Supplements included in the starter pack will be:

(This will last you approximately 3-4 weeks)

Pure CLA 1000 (45’s)

Phedra-Cut Ultra XT (60’s)

Diet Fuel Ultralean (1kg)

Protein Dessert (454g)

What I would add to this:

Women’s Ultra Two-a-day Daily Vitamin

USN OMEGA PRO 3,6,9

Phedra Cut Ultra SF (for the evenings) / Lipo

If you don’t want to enter the competition and only do the Challenge you can buy the products separately. There are great specials available and I would suggest you buy the combo packs for they work out much cheaper in the end.

Next: So lets do a quick breakdown on each product explaining the function of each supplement.

Tip: It is a good idea to get clued up on the supplements that you will be using. Not only to educate yourself on the role it plays but for you to know what you are fuelling your body with. As the Challenge Progress we will add to the supplements but for now this is the most important…

Before I begin it is so important to know your supplements and what you put into your mouth. Why do I use USN? First of all I must give them credit on their AMAZING customer support and advice.

Gareth Powell from USN has been of amazing support throughout my Challenge. All my questions have always been answered and more. So before I go any further thank you Gareth and the team at USN for making each customer/individual feel valued as a client and for the exceptional products!

Email Gareth at USN should you have any queries on this 12 Week challenge or for some advice: info@usn.co.za

Trust me even though this is allot of information make the time to read through it and get the foundation right of your knowledge beforehand.

WOMEN’s ULTRA TWO-A-DAY
DAILY VITAMIN

A daily multi-vitamin designed for the female who requires an essential supplement for a balanced, nutritious diet.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

USN WOMEN’S TWO A DAY is a scientifically formulated, nutrient rich multi-vitamin/multi nutrient, designed for the active female who has specific micronutrient demands for the continued maintenance of good health, immune support and energy availability.

All these fatty acids are necessary for the formation of healthy cell membranes, the proper development and functioning of the brain and nervous system, and for the production of hormone-like substances called eicosanoids (thromboxanes, leukotrienes, prostaglandins).

These chemicals regulate numerous body functions, including blood pressure, blood viscosity, and vasoconstriction, immune and inflammatory response. They have profound beneficial effects on the body an influence hormone production, immunity and cardiovascular health in addition, they keep the skin and other tissues youthful.

WHEN

Daily with food.

BENEFITS

Optimises metabolic function

Balances hormone production

Promotes cardiovascular health

Boosts sports performance

Reduces exercise related pain

PHEDRA-CUT LIPO XT
EXTREME THERMOGENIC FAT LOSS ACTIVATOR

Phedra-Cut Lipo XT provides all the benefits of the Phedra-Cut Ultra XT, but now includes a patent-pending encapsulated form of premium, highly concentrated natural capsicum extract, Capsimax™, which protects the esophagus and gastric barrier from the burn often experienced with cayenne pepper and its extracts. Due to the protective nature of this encapsulation, a higher quantity of capsicum actives form part of the formula, making it even more effective as a weight control aid.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

USN’s Phedra-Cut Lipo XT is an advanced fat loss activator, consisting of a synergistic blend of botanical ingredients, which have proven to assist in effective weight control.Not recommended for pregnant/lactating women.

WHEN

Prior to meals.

BENEFITS

Thermogenesis

Supports a healthy metabolism

Reduced carb absorption

Appetite control

Reduced glucose production in liver

Inhibited fat cell formation (Anti-adipogenic activity)

Mood & mental acuity enhancement

Anti-oxidation during fat breakdown

Energy boosting

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

As a dietary supplement, take 2-3 capsules 2-3 times daily, 30 minutes prior to meals/snacks. If training early morning, take 2-3 capsules prior to workout, and then follow with breakfast directly after training. Phedra-Cut Lipo XT is not recommended after 4pm.Take Phedra-Cut Lipo XT for 5 consecutive days of the week and stop use for 2 days before continuing again (2 off days).Optional: Take 3 capsules Phedra-Cut Stimulant Free 30 minutes before your evening meal to prolong the weight control process to an even greater extent throughout the evening.
During the 2 off days of not using Phedra-Cut Lipo XT, it is advised to use Phedra-Cut Stimulant Free 2 times per day, 30 minutes prior to meals.

A non-stimulant primary weight loss supplement designed to optimise the metabolic pathways associated with increase fat and carbohydrate metabolism without increasing thermogenisis or central nervous system activity.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

PHEDRA-CUT ULTRA SF has been formulated for individuals wishing to achieve optimal weight-control and energy levels, without central nervous system stimulation.

It can also be used in combination with Phedra-Cut Ultra XT to continue the weight-regulating process during the night as well as over weekends.

Increased fat burning activity (without CNS stimulation)

Blood glucose regulation (which may eliminate cravings)

Reduced carb absorption

Appetite suppression

Reduced fat accumulation (also in liver)

Mood & mental acuity enhancement

Anti-oxidation during fat breakdown

Energy boosting

May lower the level of CRP (C-reactive protein) in the body and hence reduce leptin resistance.

WHEN

Prior to meals.

BENEFITS

Decreases weight and fat mass

Suppresses appetite

Improves blood glucose regulation

Reduces starch digestion

Inhibits amalayse enzyme production

Improves thyroid function

Increases fat and glycogen metabolism

Improves metabolic function and energy levels

Non-hormonal

PURE CLA 1000
ADVANCED BODY TONER

A non-stimulant weight loss supplement that supports weight loss and the metabolic processes involved with fat burning. With further health benefits including blood sugar regulation to promote a lean physique.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Conjugated Linoleic Acid is seen as a “wonder nutrient” that occurs naturally in a wide variety of foods such as beef, some dairy products and turkey.

This “wonder nutrient” has been scientifically proven to inhibit the process that is responsible for the deposition of fat in the body (especially in the abdominal and leg areas). CLA directs the body to use fat reserves for energy. Research has shown CLA to increase lean muscle while reducing body fat. A number of other studies also revealed dramatic cholesterol-reducing effects with CLA supplementation.

USN CLA 1000 primarily provides the Cis 9, Trans 10 and Trans 11, Cis 12 isomers in a 50:50 ratio, as recommended for optimal efficiency. Supplementing with CLA should result in a leaner, healthier body.

USN DIET FUEL ULTRALEAN represents the newest and most advanced technology for the reduction of body fat as well as the maintenance of lean muscle tissue.

This delicious, low-GI, low-kJ meal replacement formula provides you with a complete, nutritious meal for anytime of the day. It contains all the essential nutrients in adequate quantities to ensure healthy and lasting weight loss.

The USN Lean System™ blend consists of N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine, HCA (Hydroxycitric acid) and a high level of bio-available Calcium, which has been shown to assist the weight-loss process through various effective mechanisms (excluding central nervous system stimulation).

The formula has a high fibre content to increase satiety levels and to assist with digestion. The reduction in hunger is further promoted through the addition of 25g High Biological Value Protein from various sources, which triggers a natural weight loss hormone (PYY) in the body.

The high quality Protein substrates also assist in improving Protein synthesis, regulating blood sugar levels to reduce cravings and improving overall health. Lactazyme™ is added to assist in the breakdown of Milk Protein and improved absorption.

WHEN

As a dietary supplement

Two servings daily at 10:00am and again at 3:00pm

BENEFITS

Muscle retention

Muscle growth

Stabilises blood sugar levels

Suppresses appetite

Increases fat and glucose metabolism

Remember to take your first “BEFORE” photos with your measurements the day you start your challenge.

I’m here to assist you if you have ANY QUESTIONS. My 12 week training program as almost done for those who will be interested.

Take on this Challenge you CAN DO THIS, you will never ever look back.

Hi all my fit and fabulous friends. If you’ve missed Expresso this morning check it out here.

Stay motivated throughout the cold winter months, set new goals and make sure you keep your program interesting at all times!

Don’t let the winter months get to you and set you back on where you want to be. During the colder months we tend to reach out to warmer comforting foods and beverages. Make sure to go for the healthier options!

Keep up the hard work and work around those cold mornings, even if you don’t always feel like it get out of bed go to gym and before you know it you will feel energized and ready for the day!

Happy Monday all my wonderful blog followers whom I don’t even know who is reading my blog ;-)…But again thank you for visiting my blog and for those who comment! They really help a lot and always come on the perfect time!

This is only the beginning of my journey and this blog will go on after this 12 week challenge is completed.

So let’s start at the beginning: How was your weekend? I had a wonderful weekend apart from some disappointments. So let me get the confessions of from my chest ;-). On Saturday we had a wedding and how difficult was this to plan or eat beforehand for the wedding started at 16:00?? My weekend started with an awesome gym session Saturday morning before we were on the road to Pretoria…Everything went great until the evening when it was time to have dinner. I had a small piece of fillet, with salad, mushrooms (think canned) and then….a pumpkin fritter with little bit of caramel sauce! Yes I know I know…Only one but this is not where it ended! Then came dessert, oh my, oh my only seeing the desert table was like being in heaven lol. See the pic. I just had to capture it even though you can’t really see what it smelled or looked like in real life! I had 2 marshmallows, a handful of sweetie heart sweets, two Mari biscuits and some unsalted biscuits, a mouse mallow (only half of it then I threw it out of the car window) and then two ginger heart biscuits! I recon it could have been much worse hey? This was hectic and I felt HORRIBLE/TERRIBLE after all I had. I condemned myself to a point where I felt very guilty. UNTIL I realized NO WAYS this is not healthy thinking patterns and what is done is done…I had to make a mind shift and realize that by meditating on the past or things that went wrong will only pull you down. So it is behind me and hey this was my first real cheat in almost 10 weeks.

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This is a new week and now it is time to keep my eyes focused on the end result. I already feel like a new person after almost 10 weeks and hey isn’t this what it was all about in the first place. I started this challenge to feel better about myself and comfortable in my clothes etc. We tend to be way too hard on ourselves. Are you the same?? If you put less pressure on yourself things will tend to go more naturally!

I took leave for this coming Friday for the model photo shoot that I have told you about…I am excited and nervous at the same time. Have no clue what to wear but I am excited about my hair, makeup and nail appointment. Wonder what I am going to do with my hair. Any suggestions? I must say I like Jamie’s hairstyle it’s just a schlep in the gym for I don’t have the time to dolly up for gym.

Well again I hope you have a blessed week filled with lots of energy and smiles.

I spend some time on the treadmill and jogged my 4.5km or so! I am not a jogger but hey with my Phedra cut slim pack I seem to be a natural lol!

I decided to join my sister in the gym for the last 3 weeks of the challenge to assist each other with the verbal motivation 😉 but I must honestly say I hate doing weight training in the afternoon. The gym is PACKED and there is no equipment available when needed. This makes it extremely difficult during this Phase where super setting plays a big role! There is no time to wait for some equipment. But hey if we can help each other why not. For now I do my cardio hour session in the morning and my weight training session in the afternoon? I am very use to training twice a day for this is how I have trained the entire year, but have to say I will definitely take it slower after the challenge and only train my 5 / 6 days a week!!!

Thursday is measurement day and I am little skeptical on what the results will say…My weight is definitely on a point where I don’t even lose one gram! Don’t know why. Think I am on 48.4kg now and no clue what the fat percentage will be on Thursday. Don’t think it dropped too much though.

Wow the intensity of the training is getting intense! I must say the time it takes to get through my program is a bit hectic… I hate being in the gym for more than a hour and a half! This program is something else but never the less amazing! I’m starting to see the results!

I don’t regret going on this 12 week live fit training program and will definitely do it over once my USN challenge is completed. I will stay longer in Phase 2 to make sure to gain as much muscle as possible before the cutting phase. I had to start with my cutting/toning phase yesterday otherwise I won’t get the results needed to win this challenge 😉 all jokes!

So how was your day? As said previously I had a golf day today where we did some marketing for our company, serving the most delicious pancakes/wraps filled with chicken/bacon/salami,spinach, feta etc.mmmm looked delicious not even to mention the dessert and the juice and grenadine and extra light ice cold white wine… Won’t think this was all done on a golf course but believe it or not we did it. The response was really amazing and we made the impression we wanted to! Can’t really see on the pic for there was another table etc.but see our hole!

Hi all my loyal blog followers, I’m so sorry for neglecting my blog the last two days but as mentioned in my previous posts I’m hectically busy with the Aardklop Art festival.

My hours are hectic and when I get back home after gym I’m really just to tired.

Gym is awesome and Phase 2 of my program is really on another level. The intensity is much higher.

How is your training going? This week we dont have any cardio (Zumba) classes at the gym and this is frustrating. I love my Zumba workout…Next week everything will be back to normal and I cannot wait! For those of you that asked me about the program when it comes to the cardio side I did incorporate cardio from the beginning of Phase 1. The reason so is because I have been training for a while so it’s not as if I started for the first time…It would have been better to skip cardio for the first 4 weeks like suggested by Jamie Eason to really make sure you gain lean muscle, but I only found this “wonder” gym program when I was 2 weeks in my USN challenge so I decided to carry on with the cardio. This training program really works we just have to stick to it. I am not in the cutting/toning phase so even though it may feel as if the results are slow, endure and don’t give up. Phase two that I am in now is focused on building muscle and I can’t wait for Phase 3.

The supersets is something to get used to but I like it, for I am not someone that can stand around for a full minute to rest although short recovery before the next set is crucial so make sure you rest in between!

It is so important to keep the balance between the cardio and the weight training and this is still a learning curve for me…They say medium intensity cardio facilitates fat burning, while minimizing the risk of losing any hard-earned muscle. So hopefully I’m doing it right.

I drink 100% Whey protein for my mid morning snack where I used to drink Diet Fuel.

100% Whey Protein Overview:

USN 100% WHEY PROTEIN is to be used immediately after training to prevent the damaging effects of cortisol (stress hormone) on the integrity of muscle tissue. The high quality Whey Isolate and Concentrate blend ensures rapid digestion and absorption of the vital Amino Acids to assist in post exercise muscle recovery.

Whey Protein is the highest BV (Biological Value) Protein available in nature. Research has shown that the highest rate of Nitrogen retention is achieved with Whey Protein.

USN’s 100% Whey Protein provides the highest quality Protein packed into one serving. It also contains Proteins such as lactalbumen and immunoglobulin’s, which are known to be vital for proper immune system function and are of special importance to body-builders and athletes.

Now with revolutionary Amino Rx™ technology, the proper uptake of the Whey Protein and its conversion into Amino Acids by the body is optimized.

BENEFITS

Muscle retention and spares lean muscle mass

Assists in weight management

Assists in immune support

Suitable for diabetics

Tuesday and Wednesday was my stimulant free days. Things are normally a bit tougher on those days for I easily feel tired and hungry. I definitely prefer the stimulant free days in the week and not over weekends though. Weekends are tougher in general for all so I just make sure I stay busy and in routine with all my supplements.

Sorry for posting all at ones hope you can figure it out. Again I would like to thank you all for following my blog, the messages and support. It is really amazing to have support even online 😉 I do appreciate your feedback! Tomorrow is Friday can’t believe it.

Oh before I forget, are you going to the Look and Feel Good Expo?

I wanted to meet Gareth there from USN for he is the one person that I am actually communicating to from USN, but unfortunately he won’t be at the expo on Sunday. So is it worth going? Think I will be like a little zombie on Sunday after this hectic week but will see. I really do think this is an awesome expo!